August 7, 2006

Review of ZIRH Scrub and Clean

The start of a good shave begins with a clean face, and to that end we've been trying out two ZIRH products - Scrub, an exfoliant, and Clean, a facial cleanser.

Exfoliation removes the top layer of dead skin, along with dirt and other junk that builds up there. It's also key to avoid ingrown hairs and other irritations from shaving. Exfoliation basically works by rubbing something slightly coarse and gritty over your skin, kind of like sand paper to wood. Only really gentle sandpaper.

I had bought this St. Ives stuff at my local Target, which I assumed was decent exfoliant. Then I tried ZIRH Scrub. Imagine going from rubbing gravel over your face to using confectioner's sugar. The grain in ZIRH Scrub is super fine, making it a joy to exfoliate, rather than a burden. ZIRH recommends you exfoliate one or two times a week, depending on how sensitive your skin is, and use it in the shower just before you shave. Even though ZIRH Scrub lists its key ingredients as "Aloe Vera, Diatomaceous earth, Sage," I though it had a mild banana smell. Deelish. Made me want to throw some vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce on my face and see what happened next. ($16)

Step 2 to a great shave is ZIRH Clean, a facial wash. Before we get into Clean, let's talk about the metal bottle it comes in. Love it! Look, there are plastic bottles which are recyclable, foil tubes like toothpaste tubes which you squeeze, and then there's industrial metal. Nothing says man-product more than metal. I have no idea if ZIRH Clean does better in metal than plastic. I have no idea if it's eco-friendly or not. I just know love this rock-solid metal jar sitting on my counter.

All right. That's out of my system. While the key ingredients are "Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Linalool, Malic Acid, Peppermint Extract, Salicylic Acid," I think you'll agree it smells mostly lemony. ZIRH Clean is thick like syrup, goes on clear, and then turns into a light lather on your face. They recommend you use it once or twice a day, depending on your skin's sensitivity and oiliness. Use a small amount. A little will go a long way. ($16)

Now even though these products are targeted toward men, they work great for women too. Women already know tons more than you about exfoliation, and will probably love to try your Scrub. ZIRH Clean can remove make-up in a pinch. If the two of you are fighting over counter space, muscle in with the ZIRH and reclaim some of your dominance.

ZIRH products are available online, and also at a bunch of store including Bloomingdale's and Sephora. Every time I've seen them there have been testers available for you to sample. Step right up and see what you like.

And don't forget - enter the code "ShavingStuff" at checkout and receive 12% orders off $40 or more.